Legislative Newsflash Ontario – Fire Code Inspections - Aug 2020

As the Province of Ontario continues its Re-Opening Plan amid the COVID-19 pandemic, some condominium corporations are facing challenges in complying with the Fire Code. The Fire Code holds condominium corporations responsible for carrying out its provisions, including periodic common element and in-suite system inspections. However, self-isolation, quarantine, and resident discomfort with suite access due to the pandemic have posed difficulties in fulfilling these obligations. While some fire departments agreed to postpone in-suite inspections during the pandemic, various municipal fire departments have continued enforcing the Fire Code to ensure public safety. Condominium corporations should take health and safety precautions during inspections, communicate with owners about these measures, and consult with fire safety experts to modify fire safety plans as needed to adapt to COVID-19 conditions while meeting Fire Code requirements.